The Literary Life of the Late Thomas Pennant, Esq.
By Himself

From continental Europe to the Hebrides, naturalist Thomas Pennant (1726–98) recounts his journeys in this literary autobiography, published 1793.

Thomas Pennant (Author)

9781108066365, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 19 September 2013

162 pages, 3 b/w illus. 1 colour illus.
24.4 x 17 x 0.9 cm, 0.27 kg

The humorously self-styled 'late' Thomas Pennant (1726–98) published this short autobiographical survey in 1793. A prominent Welsh naturalist and antiquary, he was known more for his energy and meticulous methodology than for original scientific genius. Yet he helped popularise natural history with beautifully illustrated works such as his History of Quadrupeds, the third edition of which is also reissued in this series. Moreover, he is credited with preserving thorough records of antiquities that were later damaged or destroyed. Samuel Johnson, who toured Scotland after Pennant, praised him as 'the best traveller I ever read'. More than a mere travelogue, Pennant's Literary Life is full of delightful vignettes - his meeting with the 'wicked wit' Voltaire, his affection for his faithful servant and illustrator Moses Griffith, and his poetic critique of certain hypocritical clergy. The appendices contain several of Pennant's shorter pieces on diverse topics, from anthropology to politics.

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Literary life
Of the Patagonians
Free thoughts on the militia laws
A letter from a Welsh freeholder
A letter on the ladies affectation of the military dress
On imprudency of conduct in married ladies
Flintshire petition in 1779
A letter to a Member of Parliament on mail coaches
Of the loyal associations.

Subject Areas: Literary studies: general [DSB]